Skin care is a billion dollar industry world-wide but it leaves people wondering if skin care really works or not. Most brands seem like a money grab that just appeals to the aesthetic of the branding and packaging. With the rise of brand popularity it’s extremely hard to find skin care that genuinely serves its purpose.

When it comes to skin care that is widely known, it’s a given that some of it is going to be a product of consumerism. If it goes viral on TikTok it has to work, right? We have found that multiple skin care brands and products that are promoted and endorsed on TikTok have a high probability of being overrated, breaking out people’s skin, and overall just being a bad investment.

Money is definitely an aspect when it comes to quality skincare. But there are multiple products that aren’t worth your buck.

When it comes to investing in skincare, it’s important to do your research and not just follow popular trends. Some highly marketed products may not work for everyone and could even be harmful to your skin.

Some skincare products that we have seen progress and are genuinely worth your money are the La Roche-Posay purifying cleanser and the Elta MD foaming facial cleanser. Both of these cleansers are definitely worth your money, as they are recommended by a personal dermatologist.

In addition, the Centella Blemish Cream and the Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA from The Ordinary have also received positive feedback from those who have tried them. When it comes to SPF, the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt in Milk Sunscreen and the Bondi Sands sunscreen are great options for those looking for sun protection. For eye cream, the Calm and Renew Melting Eye Cream has been praised for its hydrating and soothing properties. It’s important to note that skincare is not one-size-fits-all and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s always best to consult with a dermatologist to determine the best skincare routine for your individual needs.

But on the other hand, there are definitely some brands that you should stay away from. When it comes to CeraVe, it’s a hit or miss. The moisturizing cream could have been lighter and didn’t keep our skin from the dry atmosphere. La Mer as a whole is too expensive, especially when there are good dupes that are better and cheaper. Super Goop took over social media with its sunscreen, but we have seen that it is too harsh on the skin, and a cheaper and more gentle option is the version made by Trader Joes.

When it comes to instant cleansing balms, the Peach & Lily Power Calm Hydrating Gel Cleanser and the Banila Co Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm have been popular choices. For those looking for a brightening serum, the Vichy LiftActiv Vitamin C Serum and the Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum have received positive reviews.

As for trendy ingredients, snail mucin has been a popular addition to skincare routines, with the Cosrx Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence and the Mizon All-In-One Snail Repair Cream being popular choices. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all trendy ingredients may work for everyone.

Overall, when it comes to investing in skincare, it’s important to do your own research, consider your individual needs, and seek advice from a dermatologist. Don’t just follow popular trends and don’t let marketing and packaging deceive you into thinking a product is effective. With careful consideration and research, you can find quality skincare products that truly work for you.